The basics
- Is it really free?
- Yes. When we open, removal will be free for everyone, with no conditions attached.
- When will you open?
- We don't have a date yet. We are still forming the ministry and finding a supervising physician, nurses and a laser. This page will say when we're ready.
- Where will you be?
- In Clarkston, Michigan, which is in Oakland County, about 35 miles northwest of Detroit. We don't have an address yet. We know Clarkston can be hard to reach without a car, and we're working on a plan for rides.
- Who can come first?
- We will start with trafficking survivors, former gang members referred by a partner organization, and people with hate or offensive tattoos, on the face, neck and hands. Adults only at first. We plan to open to the general public after that.
- Do you do cover-ups?
- No. A cover-up is a new tattoo, so we only do removal.
- I need a tattoo removed now. Where can I go?
- We are not open yet. Jails to Jobs keeps a directory of free and low-cost tattoo removal programs across the United States that you can search by city or zip code. You can also email us to hear when we open.
Faith
- Do I have to be a Christian?
- No. Prayer will be offered, never required. You won't have to attend church, hear a message or share a story, and treatment will never depend on it.
- Why is a Christian ministry doing this?
- We believe the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), that people should not be tattooed, and that removal can bring true freedom. Read what we believe. Nobody has to agree with us to walk in.
Treatment
- Do I have to tell you my story?
- No. You won't have to explain why you want a tattoo gone to get an appointment.
- How many sessions will it take?
- It depends on the tattoo: its size, ink colors, how deep the ink sits and your skin. Removal often takes many sessions spaced weeks apart, and it can take a year or more. At your first visit you'll get an honest plan.
- Will it come off completely?
- Not always. Some colors, inks and skin types mean a tattoo may only fade. We'll tell you what to expect before you start.
- Does it hurt?
- Most people feel it. Once we open, a medical professional will talk with you about ways to make it more comfortable, and about caring for your skin afterward.
- Is it safe?
- We plan to provide laser removal under a supervising physician, after a medical screening and a test spot, with clear aftercare and a way to reach us if something doesn't look right. Laser removal has risks, including blistering, scarring and changes in skin color, and a physician will go over them with you before you start. This page is general information, not medical advice.
- I'm a survivor. What will be different for me?
- We plan to offer a choice of a female provider, an advocate in the room if you want one, and quiet hours or a private entrance.
Privacy and safety
- Will my information stay private?
- That is our plan. Your photos and your story will be used only with your written consent, and you'll be able to take that consent back.
- What if I need to leave this site quickly?
- Use the Leave this site button in the corner, or press Esc. It won't clear your browser history, so a private or incognito window is safer.
- What if I'm in danger?
- Call 911. You can also call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733, any time. Calls are confidential.
Helping
- Can I donate?
- Not yet. We won't accept money until the ministry is formed and set up properly. Email us and we'll let you know when we can.
- How else can I help?
- We need doctors, nurses, drivers, mentors, churches and partner organizations. See how churches can help, or get in touch.